polite

adjective po·lite \pə-ˈlīt\

: having or showing good manners or respect for other people

: socially correct or proper

po·lit·erpo·lit·est

Full Definition of POLITE

a : of, relating to, or having the characteristics of advanced culture

b : marked by refined cultural interests and pursuits especially in arts and belles lettres

a : showing or characterized by correct social usage

b : marked by an appearance of consideration, tact, deference, or courtesy

c : marked by a lack of roughness or crudities <polite literature>

— po·lite·ly adverb

— po·lite·ness noun

See polite defined for English-language learners

See polite defined for kids

Origin of POLITE

Middle English (Scots) polit, Latin politus, from past participle of polire

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to POLITE

Synonyms: civil, courteous, genteel, gracious, mannerly, well-bred

Antonyms: discourteous, ill-bred, ill-mannered, impolite, inconsiderate, mannerless, rude, thoughtless, uncivil, ungenteel, ungracious, unmannered, unmannerly

Synonym Discussion of POLITE

civil, polite, courteous, gallant, chivalrous mean observant of the forms required by good breeding. civil often suggests little more than the avoidance of overt rudeness <owed the questioner a civil reply>. polite commonly implies polish of speech and manners and sometimes suggests an absence of cordiality <if you can't be pleasant, at least be polite>. courteous implies more actively considerate or dignified politeness <clerks who were unfailingly courteous to customers>. gallant and chivalrous imply courteous attentiveness especially to women. gallant suggests spirited and dashing behavior and ornate expressions of courtesy <a gallant suitor of the old school>. chivalrous suggests high-minded and self-sacrificing behavior <a chivalrous display of duty>.

POLITELY Defined for Kids